News Summary
Austin is mourning the loss of Scott Zublin, known as ‘Zoob,’ who passed away at the age of 67. As the owner of the iconic Texas Chili Parlor, Zublin left a lasting impact on the community’s culinary scene. His death raises questions about the future of the restaurant and its beloved traditions. Despite the uncertainty, staff and friends are committed to preserving Zublin’s legacy and the warm, welcoming atmosphere that made the establishment a local favorite. The community pays tribute with a memorial display of yellow roses at the restaurant.
Austin, Texas – Scott Zublin, affectionately known as “Zoob,” passed away on June 7, 2023, at the age of 67. Zublin was the owner of the Texas Chili Parlor, a renowned restaurant located near the Texas State Capitol, famous for its original atmosphere and diverse clientele, which includes politicians and celebrities.
Zublin acquired the Texas Chili Parlor in 2002 after the iconic establishment faced closure due to unpaid taxes and debts. Upon taking ownership, he promptly settled the restaurant’s financial obligations and dedicated himself to preserving the beloved venue’s authentic vibe, a sentiment he cherished since he frequented the establishment in the late 1970s. Under Zublin’s leadership, the Texas Chili Parlor became notable not only for its chili but also for its role in Austin’s cultural landscape, having gained recognition in Southern Living magazine and appeared on the Food Network’s “The Grill Dads.” Furthermore, the restaurant made a cameo in Quentin Tarantino’s film “Death Proof.”
Following Zublin’s sudden passing, the future of the Texas Chili Parlor now hangs in the balance. While there is widespread concern regarding potential redevelopment that may transform the establishment into a more upscale business, there has been no official word on its direction. Employees are notably anxious about the leadership transition, as it has not been disclosed who will take charge of the restaurant going forward. However, there remains a strong intention among the staff for the Texas Chili Parlor to continue its operations in a manner that honors Zublin’s legacy.
Among those expressing their commitment to preserving Zublin’s vision are William Holmes, a bartender at the establishment, and Pepe Lozano, a close friend of the late owner. Both have voiced their aspirations to maintain the essence of what the Texas Chili Parlor represented during Zublin’s stewardship. There is a palpable sense of loss within the company and its patrons, and employees are making efforts to keep the spirit of Zublin alive.
On June 16, a memorial display featuring yellow roses and other flowers was established at the entrance of the Texas Chili Parlor in tribute to Zublin, where friends, family, and devoted customers are encouraged to pay their respects. The vibrant offerings serve as a heartfelt reminder of the impact Zublin had on the restaurant and the people who frequented it.
The Texas Chili Parlor’s significance in Austin’s dining scene cannot be understated. Over its 49 years in operation, the establishment has woven itself into the fabric of the community, known for its hearty chili and lively atmosphere. The restaurant’s proximity to the Texas State Capitol has made it a favored spot for lawmakers, which further contributed to its storied reputation.
Zublin’s journey with the Texas Chili Parlor reflects a profound commitment not only to culinary excellence but also to hospitality and community service. His legacy is anticipated to influence the future direction of the restaurant even as uncertainties loom in the wake of his untimely death. The shared hope among patrons and employees alike is to see the restaurant remain a beloved institution in Austin’s vibrant culinary landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KVUE
- Wikipedia: Austin
- KXAN
- Google Search: Texas Chili Parlor
- Spectrum Local News
- Google Scholar: Scott Zublin
- Legacy.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chili
- MSN News
- Google News: Scott Zublin
Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER
The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
